Our latest Dynasty of Nature collection draws upon the delicate blue ink work of 17th Century Delftware with our signature Australian twist. Native birds and tranquil Australian landscape tableaus make up this stunning new collection, illustrated by our in-house artist, Laura Ramos. Curious as to what Delft-ware is? Read along for a brief history lesson on this stunning blue-ink style.
What is Defltware Pottery?
Delftware, also known as Delft pottery or Delft Blue, is a type of tin-glazed earthenware ceramic that originated in the city of Delft in the Netherlands in the 17th century.
Delftware was inspired by Chinese porcelain, which was highly sought after in Europe during the 17th century. Chinese porcelain was expensive and in high demand, which quickly led to European potters trying to replicate its appearance and appeal.
When was Delftware made?
In the early 17th century, Dutch potters began experimenting with creating their version of white and blue porcelain. Delft, a city with a long history of ceramic production, quickly became a centre for this new style of pottery.
Initially, Delftware closely imitated the decorative motifs and patterns found on Chinese porcelain, such as landscapes, floral designs, and scenes from everyday life.
What is pictured on Delftware Pottery?
Delftware pottery traditionally depicts a wide range of subject matter, including:
- Landscapes: Scenes of countryside, rivers, and villages are common motifs in Delftware. These landscapes often feature windmills, sailboats, and other elements characteristic of Dutch scenery.
- Floral Designs: Delftware frequently incorporates floral motifs, including tulips, roses, and other flowers. These designs may be realistic or stylized and are often arranged in intricate patterns.
- Animals: Birds, fish, insects, and other animals are commonly depicted on Delftware. These motifs may be inspired by the natural world or may have symbolic significance.
Throughout its history, Delftware has undergone various stylistic changes and innovations. Still, it has always maintained its characteristic blue and white color scheme and its association with Dutch craftsmanship and tradition. Delftware continues to be appreciated and sought after by collectors, enthusiasts, and tourists alike, and it can be found in a variety of settings. You can visit the city of Delft in the South of Holland and discover the modern makers of this traditional craft today.
In a delightful fusion of cultures and artistic traditions, we've embarked on a journey to integrate the iconic Delftware pottery designs into our Australian landscape illustrations. This innovative approach marries the rich heritage of Dutch ceramics with the breathtaking beauty of Australia's natural landscapes, resulting in a truly unique and captivating artistic expression.
Drawing inspiration from the intricate motifs and timeless elegance of Delftware, we've seamlessly woven these elements into our depictions of the Australian terrain. From rolling hills adorned with windmills to serene riverside scenes featuring native flora and fauna, each illustration reflects a harmonious blend of Dutch and Australian influences.
One of the key aspects of this integration is the incorporation of traditional Delftware patterns and imagery into the composition of our landscapes. Delicate blue and white designs, reminiscent of classic Delft pottery, now adorn the skies, riverbanks, and rolling plains of our illustrations, adding a touch of whimsy and nostalgia to the familiar Australian scenes.
